Songs of Moses in the Bible
Quick Summary
There are two main Songs of Moses in the Bible: the first in Exodus 15, sung after the crossing of the Red Sea, and the second in Deuteronomy 32, delivered as Moses nears the end of his life. Both songs are poetic expressions of God's power, judgment, and faithfulness. They are among the oldest Hebrew compositions, shaping Israel’s collective memory and worship. These songs reappear in significance throughout scripture, especially in Revelation 15:3, where the redeemed sing "the song of Moses" and "the song of the Lamb."
Introduction
Some words are spoken to people. Others are sung with people. And then there are the songs that outlive the people who sang them. The two biblical Songs of Moses fall into that last category as they are the enduring proclamations of deliverance, covenant, warning, and hope.
The first appears in Exodus 15 after the miraculous parting of the Red Sea. Israel has been delivered from Pharaoh’s army. Their first response? A song of praise. The second song shows up in Deuteronomy 32, just before Moses' death. He is no longer singing in celebration but warning Israel to remain faithful.
Both songs teach theology. Both are deeply personal. Both are central to Israel's identity. Let’s explore these ancient songs that echo through Scripture.
Song of Moses in Exodus 15:1–21
Context
The first Song of Moses follows the most dramatic act of deliverance in the Old Testament — the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 14). With Pharaoh’s army drowned and the people finally free, Moses leads Israel in a spontaneous eruption of praise.
“Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the Lord: ‘I will sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously; horse and rider he has thrown into the sea.’” — Exodus 15:1
This song is often considered the earliest recorded hymn of the Hebrew people.
Themes and Structure
The song is structured poetically, with several clear themes:
Victory and Power: The Lord is depicted as a warrior who throws horse and rider into the sea (v. 1).
God as Deliverer: This is His victory — not Israel’s military power.
Divine Holiness: “Who is like you, O Lord, among the gods?” (v. 11)
Future Hope: The song looks ahead to Israel’s arrival in the promised land (vv. 17–18).
The final verses are led by Miriam, Moses’ sister, who takes a tambourine and leads the women in a reprise of the song (Exodus 15:20–21). This indicates communal celebration — men and women praising God together.
Theological Significance
This song does more than praise; it teaches:
Monotheism: God’s power surpasses all other gods.
Covenant: The people are being brought to the mountain where God will dwell.
Liturgical Memory: Later generations would remember God’s deliverance through this song.
Its place in Israel’s story is so important that echoes of this moment show up in the Psalms (Psalm 66, 77) and the Prophets.
Song of Moses in Deuteronomy 32
Context
Deuteronomy 32 is Moses' farewell song, delivered before his death and Israel’s entrance into the land. It’s part of a covenantal renewal — Moses warns the people against idolatry and urges them to remember God's faithfulness.
“Give ear, O heavens, and I will speak; let the earth hear the words of my mouth.” — Deuteronomy 32:1
The song blends history, poetry, prophecy, and warning. Moses sings not just to the people before him, but to the generations to come.
Themes and Structure
God’s Faithfulness: “The Rock, his work is perfect” (v. 4).
Israel’s Rebellion: Despite God’s provision, they turn to idols (vv. 15–18).
Judgment and Mercy: God disciplines but doesn’t destroy Israel entirely (vv. 19–27).
Vindication and Justice: God will ultimately act on behalf of his people (vv. 34–43).
Liturgical Role
Moses is instructed to teach the song to the people (Deuteronomy 31:19), so that when they fall away, this song would serve as a witness against them. This isn't background music — it’s a covenantal document.
Prophetic Edge
This song is prophetic in tone. It foresees apostasy, exile, and eventual restoration. It ends not in despair but in vindication:
“He will avenge the blood of his children, and take vengeance on his adversaries” (v. 43).
It’s no wonder that this song became a theological foundation for later Jewish and Christian reflection.
Song of Moses in Revelation 15:3–4
Centuries later, Revelation 15:3 refers back to the Song of Moses:
“They sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb.” — Revelation 15:3
This fusion of Moses and Jesus symbolizes a continuity of deliverance — from Egypt to the cross, from Pharaoh to Satan, from slavery to sin to eternal life.
In Exodus, the people are saved through water.
In Revelation, they are saved through fire and trial.
These worshipers sing not only of past victories, but of final redemption.
Meaning for Today
The Songs of Moses are not merely historical artifacts. They help frame how believers understand God’s activity in the world:
God fights for his people — in Egypt, in exile, and in eternity.
God desires to be remembered — and songs help us remember.
Songs shape identity — Moses gave Israel lyrics to live by.
Christians, too, sing their theology. From hymns to worship choruses, songs help us articulate the mysteries of God. The echoes of Exodus and Deuteronomy continue to reverberate in our worship today.
When churches sing about crossing over, victory in Jesus, or God being our Rock — they’re borrowing from Moses.
Citations and Resources
Alter, Robert. The Five Books of Moses. W. W. Norton & Company, 2004. (See commentary on Exodus 15 and Deuteronomy 32)
Brueggemann, Walter. Deuteronomy. Abingdon Old Testament Commentaries, 2001.
Childs, Brevard S. The Book of Exodus: A Critical, Theological Commentary. Westminster John Knox, 1974.
Wenham, Gordon. “The Song of Moses.” Tyndale Bulletin 21.1 (1970): 3–18.
FAQ
What is the Song of Moses in Exodus?
The Song of Moses in Exodus 15 is a hymn of praise sung after Israel crossed the Red Sea. It celebrates God’s power, deliverance, and faithfulness.
What is the Song of Moses in Deuteronomy?
This is a poetic warning delivered by Moses before his death. Found in Deuteronomy 32, it reviews Israel’s history, warns of disobedience, and promises eventual restoration.
Why does Revelation mention the Song of Moses?
Revelation 15:3 combines the Song of Moses and the Song of the Lamb, symbolizing God’s ultimate victory and redemption.
Are there two Songs of Moses?
Yes — one in Exodus 15 (after the Red Sea) and one in Deuteronomy 32 (as a farewell warning). Revelation 15 refers to them both.
Who sings with Moses in Exodus 15?
Miriam, Moses’ sister, leads the women in singing and dancing with tambourines, repeating the key refrain of the song.
